IMD Urges Church Leaders To Transform Local Churches Into Prayer Movements web

IMD Urges Church Leaders To Transform Local Churches Into Prayer Movements

by with No Comment Church NewsMoving With IMDTop Stories

The International Missions Director (IMD) of The Church of Pentecost, Apostle Emmanuel Agyemang Bekoe, called on ministers and elders of the Church to transform the local churches into vibrant prayer movements.

Speaking to participants of the Global Elders’ Retreat gathered at the Pentecost Convention Centre (PCC) in Gomoa Fetteh and others at various satellite centres, Apostle Bekoe emphasised the vital role of prayer in the local church.

He explained that by embracing the vision of making the local church a powerful prayer movement, ministers and elders would usher in a transformative era of spiritual growth and impact within their congregations.

Drawing from James 5:13, Apostle Bekoe proposed that every local church service should feature a prayer session where congregants engage fervently with God in prayer.

He, therefore, urged church leaders to take the responsibility of leading their members in prayer by making the church a dedicated Prayer Centre, stating that when people are dissatisfied with the prayer life within the church, they often seek prayer elsewhere.

He acknowledged that some church members maintain membership in The Church of Pentecost while engaging in prayer fellowships outside the church premises.

To address this, he urged church leaders to satisfy their members’ spiritual needs by cultivating a robust prayer culture within the local church.

Quoting Ephesians 6:18, Apostle Bekoe noted the different types of prayer that should be practised in the local church, including the prayer of thanksgiving (Psalm 100:4), confession (1 John 1:9-10), intercession (Ezekiel 4:4), and supplication (James 5:13).

He urged Church leaders to ensure that intercession and supplication are integral to every local church gathering.

Apostle Bekoe presented four critical aspects of the local church as a prayer movement. Firstly, he described it as a Salvation Centre where people come for redemption and deliverance.

He emphasised that every church service should be seen as a deliverance service, as prayer plays a crucial role in bringing about lasting transformation.

Secondly, he described the local church as a Solution Centre, where answers are provided to complex problems. He encouraged church leaders to actively seek divine solutions to the challenges faced by their congregations.

Thirdly, Apostle Bekoe portrayed the local church as a Salvaging Centre where broken and battered individuals can find restoration and healing, saying that the church must be a source of redemption and wholeness for those in need.

Finally, the IMD highlighted the local church as an Encounter Centre, stressing that it should be a place where people genuinely encounter God rather than a mere entertainment venue.

“When people come to Church, they must encounter God, or God must encounter them. Whichever way, there must certainly be an encounter,” he said.

Apostle Bekoe urged church leaders to prioritise prayer over administrative tasks and ensure that the church remains a sacred space for encountering the presence of God.

“As Church leaders, let us all rise in prayer and protect the spiritual boundaries of the Church,” he charged.

PENTECOST NEWS.

Ministry Is In The World, Not Only In The Church web

Ministry Is In The World, Not Only In The Church – Youth Leader Discloses

by with No Comment Church NewsTop StoriesYouth Ministry

The Adenta District Youth Leader of The Church of Pentecost, Elder Charles Chemel Christian, has expressed concern about the low participation of Christian youth in evangelical activities outside the church.

He expressed this concern on May 5, 2023, at the Madina Area Zonal Joint Service held at Adenta Central Auditorium to commemorate this year’s National Youth Week celebration.

Elder Christian highlighted that while attending church is essential to Christian fellowship, it is not the only place where Christians can serve God.

“The ministry of Christ is out there, not just in the church. We come to church to embrace ourselves in fellowship, but the real work happens outside,” he emphasised.

This year’s National Youth Week is themed “Grounded in Christ, Repositioned for Maximum Impact” – Colossians 2:6-7.

He urged young Christians to join evangelism teams at their local churches to enable them to contribute their quota to spreading the gospel of Christ. 

He also reminded them that the purpose of evangelism extends beyond winning souls for Christ as it encompasses positively impacting society.

“Many young Christians agree that the church needs to extend its reach beyond its physical walls. It would help if the youth were ready to embrace evangelism and actively contribute to positively impacting society,” he stated.

The district youth leader encouraged young Christians to remain grounded in Christ and position themselves for maximum impact.

He called on church leaders to encourage and support young people willing to serve in the ministry of Christ outside the church, saying, “By working together, Christians can make a significant impact on society and spread the gospel of Christ to all nations.”

Report by Divine Mensah Vadze.

Emulate Jesus' Mentoring Model – Apostle Kumi-Larbi Tells Church Elders web

Emulate Jesus’ Mentoring Model – Apostle Kumi-Larbi Tells Church Elders

by with No Comment Church NewsMoving With GsTop Stories

The General Secretary of The Church of Pentecost, Apostle Alexander Nana Yaw Kumi-Larbi, has emphasised the importance of mentoring in the local church and called upon elders of the Church to emulate the mentoring model of Jesus Christ.

With The Church of Pentecost experiencing significant growth in membership and expanding its presence to numerous nations, Apostle Kumi-Larbi stressed the need for intentional mentoring, particularly among the youth, who comprise over 70% of the church’s members.

According to him, effective mentoring would play a vital role in the church’s efforts to reposition the local church for a greater societal impact.

Apostle Kumi-Larbi said this when he gave a presentation on the topic “Mentoring In The Local Church” today at the second edition of the Global Elders’ Retreat at the Pentecost Convention Centre (PCC), Gomoa Fetteh.

In his presentation, the General Secretary defined a mentor as a wise and trusted counsellor or teacher who guides and advises a younger or less experienced person over an extended period, especially in professional or educational settings.

Referring to Ephesians 4:11-13, Apostle Kumi-Larbi explained that it is the responsibility of Church leaders to equip God’s people for His work and to build up the body of Christ until everyone reaches maturity.

He described the Church’s leadership philosophy as “Grow your own timber and use it,” emphasising that every new convert, regardless of gender, possesses the potential to become a leader.

“Our leadership development starts at the grassroots level,” Apostle Kumi-Larbi stated, adding that mentors are crucial in transferring knowledge and experiences, helping the next generation avoid repeating past mistakes and making better decisions.

Touching on Jesus’ mentoring model, he said that the religious leaders at the time marvelled at the boldness and impact of Peter and John despite their lack of formal training. He said the fact that Jesus Himself had mentored them accounted for the transformation of the disciples.

Apostle Kumi-Larbi further highlighted Jesus’ relational approach to mentoring, where there is close interaction between mentors and mentees.

He encouraged church leaders to create room and avenues for mentees to be in close proximity to their mentors, allowing for intimate relationships and open communication.

He stressed the significance of leaders demonstrating the qualities they wish to impart, leading through their own actions and experiences.

He said that Jesus’ teaching was not limited to theory but manifested in His own life, providing a tangible example for His disciples to follow.

Using various methods such as parables, questions, and correction, Jesus taught His disciples about prayer, love, forgiveness, and leadership.

Apostle Kumi-Larbi encouraged church leaders to adopt similar teaching strategies, engaging in dialogue and providing practical guidance to help mentees develop their God-given graces and talents.

The General Secretary explained that Christian mentoring is a process based on submission to Christ, characterised by mutual sharing, trust, and enrichment.

He highlighted the mentor’s role as a model and trusted listener, relying on the Holy Spirit for insight and transformation.

He also mentioned Eli and Samuel (1 Samuel 1-4), Elijah and Elisha (2 Kings 19:19-21; 2 Kings 2:1-25), Barnabas and Paul, and Paul and Timothy, among others, as other biblical examples of how Christian mentoring can be effective and urged church leaders to prioritise mentoring within their congregations.

Apostle Kumi-Larbi identified the three phases of mentoring as the Parenthood Phase, where the mentor cares for and nurtures young Christians (mentees); the Pacesetting Phase, where the mentor models Christian maturity for the mentee to emulate; and the Partnering Phase, where the mentee becomes spiritually mature and is now viewed as a co-worker by the mentor.

The General Secretary was confident that if Christian mentoring is pursued intentionally at the local churches, many young members will become grounded in Christ, resulting in a more glorious Church in the future.

PENTECOST NEWS.

Good Work Ethics Inspire Others To Embrace WEB

Good Work Ethics Inspire Others To Embrace The Gospel –Mrs Nyamekye Admonishes Youth

by with No Comment Church NewsTop Stories

Mrs Mary Nyamekye, the wife of the Chairman of The Church of Pentecost, has admonished the youth to exemplify good ethical qualities in their various fields of work to inspire others to receive the gospel they preach about the Lord Jesus Christ.

She urged the youth to demonstrate integrity, a positive attitude, punctuality, respectful behaviour, and professionalism in their workplaces.

The wife of the Chairman said this during a fellowship with the Accra Newtown Zone of La Area Youth Ministry at Dr Thomas Wyatt Memorial Temple, Accra Newtown, as part of the 2023 National Youth Week Celebrations, on Monday, June 5, 2023.

In her message titled, “Reposition Yourself As A Youth for Maximum Impact,” Mrs Nyamekye used 1 Timothy 4:12-16, Ecclesiastes 12:1, and Proverbs 24:33 as biblical references, urging the youth not to underestimate themselves but to channel their energy and strength into serving God wholeheartedly as Paul encouraged Timothy, his disciple.

She emphasised that good work ethics can create an environment that enables individuals to share the message of Jesus Christ with their non-believing colleagues and superiors in the corporate world.

“As Christians, demonstrating good ethical values in your fields attracts unbelieving colleagues and superiors, making the message of the Cross very appealing to them because we are living out the principles of the Kingdom of God in our respective fields of work and corporate world,” she stated.

She further urged the youth to live by the Word of God, which serves as a guide to Christians in the world.

The service, moderated by Pastor Emmanuel Opoku Mensah, the La Area Youth Pastor, was graced by the Area Head, Apostle Dr Dieudonne Komla Nuekpe, and his wife, Mrs Juanita Toffa Nuekpe, Apostle Kingsley Addai (Resident Minister of Pentecost International Worship Centre, Accra & the La Area Evangelism Leader), the Area Pastorate, the Area Youth Ministry Executives, and members of the ministry.

Report by Daniel Tetteh, La Area Media

Create Platform For Open Discussions web

Create Platform For Open Discussions – Apostle Nyamekye To Presiding Elders

by with No Comment Church NewsMoving With ChairmanTop Stories

Apostle Eric Nyamekye, the Chairman of The Church of Pentecost, has called upon presiding elders of the church to create a platform for open discussions and collaboration among church officers.

The Chairman also charged presiding elders, whom he described as “first among equals” to organised regular meetings to strategise for the growth of the church, emphasising that Vision 2023 mandates them to conduct formal meetings at least once a month to review ongoing activities and address pending issues within the local church.

“It is essential to establish a forum where everyone can freely share their thoughts and ideas for the progress of the church. Failing to do so may lead to dissatisfied leaders expressing their concerns elsewhere,” he explained.

Apostle Nyamekye said this during the opening session of the second phase of the Global Elders’ Retreat, held at the Pentecost Convention Centre (PCC) in Gomoa Fetteh, on Friday, June 9, 2023.

Speaking on the theme, “Managing Meetings,” the Chairman highlighted the importance of meetings as critical components of effective organisational management, whether in a church or any other setting.

He stressed that the church is both an organism and an organisation, underscoring the significance of leaders dedicating themselves to studying the Word and engaging in fervent prayer.

However, he cautioned that praying and preaching cannot build the church. Effective management is crucial to prevent confusion, dissatisfaction, grumbling, and chaos within the organisation.

Apostle Nyamekye emphasised that no individual possesses all the necessary skills and abilities, urging church leaders not to assume such an all-encompassing role.

He stated: “A good presiding elder is someone who can collaborate and effectively utilise the gifts and talents of the members.”

Quoting Acts 4:23, the Chairman highlighted that meetings are organised to counter the devil and his forces, saying, “We convene meetings to strategise against the devil. As the local church flourishes, it combats the devil’s influence.”

Apostle Nyamekye outlined essential steps in preparing for a meeting, advising the chairperson to clearly define the purpose and objectives of the meeting, determine its duration, and ensure the relevant participants are present before commencement.

Furthermore, he identified various purposes of meetings, including sharing information or advice, issuing instructions, addressing grievances, generating ideas through brainstorming, presenting proposals for discussion, and making crucial decisions.

To keep meetings focused, Apostle Eric Nyamekye asked persons chairing meetings to familiarise themselves with the circulated information beforehand, adhere to scheduled start and end times, gently redirect discussions back to the agenda if they veer off-track, involve participants in questions and answers, allow orderly participation from all attendees, and ensure everyone is aware of the decisions made.

“When all agenda items have been discussed, the presiding elder should summarise the proceedings, set a date for the next meeting, express gratitude to participants, and conclude the meeting with a prayer,” he concluded.

PENTECOST NEWS

679 Persons Received Baptism In Pakistan web

679 Persons Received Baptism In Pakistan

by with No Comment Church NewsMissionsTop Stories

The Islamic Democratic of Pakistan branch of The Church of Pentecost observed the Week of Pentecost, held from 22 – 28 May, 2023.

During the week, 679 persons received water baptism, while 1,234 people received Holy Spirit baptism.

The Church in Pakistan is persecuted but it is moving forward under the power of the Holy Spirit.

Throughout the week, various services, including evangelical, prayer, and fasting meetings, were held in all congregations in Pakistan. The climax of the week on Sunday, May 28, 2023, saw the celebration of Pentecost.

After sharing the message via Zoom from Canada, the National Head of the Church in Pakistan, Apostle Dr. Jamil Nasir, conducted the baptism service while speaking with the congregation.

After expressing faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, the believers were baptised in water.

Both Christians and non-believers experienced the Holy Spirit’s manifestation and its power.

PENTECOST NEWS

The Church Of Pentecost Commissions Coconut Processing Plant At Adansi Atwereboana web

The Church Of Pentecost Commissions Coconut Processing Plant At Adansi Atwereboana

by with No Comment Church NewsPENTSOSTop Stories

A coconut processing plant constructed by the Adansi Atwereboana District in the Assin Foso Area of The Church of Pentecost has been commissioned.

The GH¢95,000.00 project was commissioned by the Assin Foso Area Head of the Church, Apostle Frederick Kwaku Andoh, on Friday, June 9, 2023. The chiefs and people of the community attended the colourful ceremony.

The facility, which will extract coconut oil with the brand name ‘Pent Rich Cooking Oil,’ is expected to offer initial direct job opportunities to about 20 people.

The District Minister, Pastor Maxwell Kusi, a brainchild of the project, explained that he used the internally generated funds to finance the project.

He indicated that the Church intends to use the facility to turn around the economic fortunes of members of the Church in the district, create employment opportunities for the youth, and find alternative sources of income to support ongoing church projects.

“This project follows the inauguration of a market project the Church constructed for the Atwereboana community a year ago,” Pastor Kusi disclosed.

According to him, the people in the area are predominantly farmers, most of whom are engaged in coconut production, stressing that the need to provide a ready market for their produce and improve their economic situations gave birth to the project.

“Aside from generating more funds to support the Church’s developmental projects, we hope to create jobs along the value chain for our teaming youth,” he added.

Speaking on the topic, “Identifying and exercising your unique talent for maximum impact,” with scripture reference from Matthew 25:14-29, the Area Head, Apostle Frederick Kwaku Andoh, asserted that God had created a unique talent in each person which, when identified and harnessed, brings more significant impact.

“One disaster that can happen to anyone is identifying your talent and yet hiding it,” he said, adding, “Remember that you are accountable to God for every talent he has given you. Identify your talent, exercise it and God will bless you and cause you to make the needed impact.”

Mr Kester Gyedu Dente, who represented the Adansi South District Chief Executive (DCE), commended the District Pastor for his visionary leadership, which has improved the local economy and job creation.

He seized the opportunity to advise potential workers at the plant to work faithfully in expanding the business.

The Odikro of Adansi Atwereboana, Nana Adua II, also paid glowing tribute to The Church of Pentecost and the District Pastor for their massive contributions towards the development of the community and its people.

Present at the ceremony were Ministers of the Church and their wives in the Assin Foso Area, delegates from the Adansi South District Assembly, Heads of Departments, Chiefs and Elders of Adansi Atwereboana, and market queens, among others.

Report by Pastor Samuel Avornyo, Area Reporter

Raise Your Children To Fear the Lord WEB

Raise Your Children To Fear the Lord – Christian Parents Told

by with No Comment Church NewsTop Stories

The Effiduase District Minister of The Church of Pentecost, Pastor Frank Oppong, has admonished Christian parents to be intentional about raising God-fearing children.

According to him, one of the highest duties that Christian parents have is the delightful privilege and lofty duty to teach their children the fear of the LORD.

Pastor Oppong gave this advice while exhorting congregants at the naming and dedication ceremony of the newborn child of the Bosuso District Minister, Pastor and Mrs. Gloria Agbesi, at the Bosuso District Central Assembly auditorium on Wednesday, June 7, 2023.

Speaking on the theme, “Command Your Children to Keep the Fear of the LORD,” with references from Genesis 18:17-19, Deuteronomy 4:10, Titus 2:11-13, and Colossians 1:27, Pastor Frank Oppong urged parents, especially Christians, to make it a priority to teach and command their children to follow the ways of the Lord, to act justly and righteously, so that the Lord may fulfill His promises to them.

He emphasised that to fear God is to live with a profound consciousness of God’s presence in one’s daily life. He further explained that fearing God means to detest evil, pride, arrogance, wickedness, corruption, and perverse speech.

He added that if parents raise their children in the discipline and instruction of the Lord, the children will grow up with the fear of the Lord, and they will not depart from it as they mature.

Pastor Oppong reiterated that education without Christ is fraught with challenges and therefore advised parents not to focus solely on their children’s academic needs, as some even hire additional tutors for their children.

He stated that leaving a legacy of academic achievement and wealth in the hands of a wayward child is a waste of energy, time, and resources, as “adversity pursues sinners, but the righteous will be rewarded with prosperity.”

The Effiduase District Minister expressed concern about the world’s increasing departure from biblical principles, hence, the need for Christian parents to be intentional about teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training their children in righteousness so that they may be fully equipped for every good work.

Using Joseph and Samuel as biblical examples, he cautioned parents not to be indifferent in teaching their children to revere God and fear Him, especially in a world that has witnessed a decline in moral values and little or no regard for godly matters.

“Make a concerted effort to instill discipline and the fear of the Lord in the lives of their children, who are gifts from God,” he said.

Pastor Oppong stated that fearing the Lord is connected to obedience to God’s will. Those who fear God, walk in His ways, and find delight in His commands are declared “blessed.” (Psalm 112:1, 115:13, 128:1) These blessings remain available to those who cultivate a fear of the Lord in their daily lives.

He mentioned that a God-fearing attitude is essential for those who seek meaningful knowledge and wisdom, saying: “When we fear God, His divine and unfathomable wisdom becomes accessible to us”.

He further stated that, accord ing the Bible, the fear of the Lord prolongs life, while the years of the wicked will be shortened.

“The fear of God is a fountain of life, turning a person away from the snares of death. And Whoever fears the LORD has a secure fortress, and for their children, it will be a refuge,” he said.

The Effiduase District Minister also referred to the amazing promise made to those who fear the Lord in Psalm 25, that the friendship of the LORD is for those who fear Him, and He makes His covenant known to them.

To raise God-fearing children, Pastor Frank Oppong advised Christian parents to reposition their homes as houses of prayer and places of sound biblical teaching.

He encouraged them to speak of God’s glory and demonstrate it in their lives.

He emphasized the importance of dealing with sin firmly, swiftly, immediately, and according to biblical principles. God does not overlook sin or treat it lightly.

Pastor Oppong also urged parents to prioritize the worship of Almighty God, as it is through worship that children can learn to fear the Lord.

Additionally, he encouraged parents to model God-fearing lifestyles for their children.

The child-naming and dedication service was officiated by Pastor Stephen Okyere Acheampong (Effiduase Area Head) and attended by Pastor Francis Adawu Gameli (Effiduase Area Secretary), Pastor Sampson K. Boakye (Suhum Sector Travelling Secretary), and several ministers and their wives from the Effiduase Area.

Report by Elder Enoch Obeng Asare (Effiduase Area)

The Church Of Pentecost Member Awarded ICAG Overall Best Student web

The Church Of Pentecost Member Awarded ICAG Overall Best Student

by with No Comment Church NewsTop StoriesYouth Ministry

Mr. Charles Denkyi, a member of the Pentecost International Worship Centre (PIWC), Dansoman, was awarded the Overall Best Student at the recently-held 41st Institute of Chartered Accountants Ghana (ICAG) Graduation ceremony.

During the ceremony held at the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA) on June 3, 2023, Mr. Denkyi not only received the coveted overall award but also secured three additional honours: Best in Public Sector Accounting (Level 2), Best in Corporate Reporting (Level 3), and Best in Advanced Audit and Assurance (Level 3).

Master Charles Denkyi also holds a first degree in Business Administration-Accounting from the University of Ghana, further exemplifying his dedication to academic excellence.

In an interview with PENTECOST NEWS, Mr. Denkyi attributed his success to the unwavering support and encouragement provided by the leadership of the Church, with special mention of his Resident Minister, Pastor Ebenezer Amartey Ahuakese.

He said that his consistent motivation has fueled his pursuit of excellence in all his endeavours.

The remarkable achievement of Master Charles Denkyi has served as a source of inspiration for numerous young individuals in the district, prompting them to also prioritise their academic pursuits.

Report by Elder Nathan Ahwireng

The Church Of Pentecost Donates To Sefwi Kofikrom SDA Hospital web

The Church Of Pentecost Donates To Sefwi Kofikrom SDA Hospital

by with No Comment Church NewsTop StoriesWomen's Ministry

The Women’s and Men’s Ministries of The Church of Pentecost in the Sefwi Juaboso Area, on May 31, 2023, joined forces to donate items worth GH₵ 5,000.00 to the Sefwi Kofikrom SDA Hospital.

The donated items included bottled water, bed sheets, mops and mop buckets, sweeping brushes, brooms, disinfectants, toiletries, soft drinks, biscuits/chocolates, and fruits.

Deaconess Mary Ampah, the Area Women’s Ministry Leader, said the gesture aligned with the Church’s vision of “Possessing the Nations.”

She stated: “This gesture aims to equip the church to transform every aspect of society with the values and principles of the kingdom of God.” 

She thanked the Sefwi Juaboso Area, Women’s and Men’s Ministries, and the Church for their unwavering support.

In a word of exhortation on the topic, “There is a Reward for Everything We Do,” Matthew 25:31-46, Apostle Shadrack Ohene-Asa Otu, the Sefwi Juaboso Area Head, emphasised the importance of performing all tasks with excellence, as stated in Colossians 3:23. 

He encouraged all and sundry to stand firm in their faith, resist the devil, and understand that suffering is part of the Christian journey.

Representing the Sefwi Kofikrom Traditional Council, Nana Kwadwo Amoateng, the Kurotihene of Sefwi Kofikrom, expressed his gratitude to The Church of Pentecost leadership for their thoughtfulness towards the community.

He noted that the donation was the first of its kind since the hospital’s inception and acknowledged the continuous support the Church has provided to the Kofikrom Township.

Dr Alfred Kwame Asamoah, the hospital’s Medical Superintendent, thanked the Area Head and The Church of Pentecost for the visit and significant donation.

He also appreciated the Church’s previous contributions during the challenging period of the Covid-19 pandemic, which greatly assisted the hospital.

After the presentation, Apostle Ohene-Asa Otu and the delegation toured the wards and offered prayers for the patients and staff.

Present at the presentation ceremony included ministers of the Church in the Area and their wives, the Area Deacon, the leadership of the Women’s and Men’s Ministries, Chiefs and Elders of Sefwi Kofikrom, and the Management and Staff of S.D.A Hospital.

Report by Pastor Emmanuel Korankye Oduro.